San Francisco – Kitchen & Bath – Contractors

Strong Builders Construction, Inc. provides a wide range of general construction services for residential and commercial clients throughout San Francisco. In addition to building room additions and remodeling kitchens and bathrooms, the company installs decks and countertops, offers apartment renovation services,…
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AREAS SERVED

Barnum Building & Design remodels kitchens and bathrooms, builds room additions, renovates existing rooms, and provides other general contracting services for residential and commercial clients throughout San Francisco and the surrounding areas. As a full-service contractor, the company has the in-house…
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Goffo Construction Inc. remodels kitchens and bathrooms; builds room additions, redwood decks and outdoor living spaces; and provides other general contracting services for residential and commercial clients throughout San Francisco. The company also helps its customers improve the curb appeal…
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Diamond certified companies are top rated and guaranteed

How To Choose

Researching Good Kitchen & Bath Contractors in San Francisco

The kitchen is considered the heart of a home. But outdated and dingy kitchens and bathrooms can make your home feel less welcoming. Good bath and kitchen contractors can modernize these important rooms and add comfort and value to your home.

There are many local kitchen and bath contractors in San Francisco. So how do you know which one to choose?

Research is the key to your success. The more information you have about local kitchen and bathroom contractors and the services they provide, the more confident you can be when choosing one. See the following articles for more information on how to research, hire and deal with good contractors in your area.

Know Your Rights When Hiring a San Francisco Kitchen & Bath Contractor
While you may be in a hurry to have your bathroom and kitchen remodeled, it’s wise to research your options before signing a contract with the first contractor you come across. It’s also good to know your rights as a consumer.

First, make sure the local kitchen and bathroom contractors you’re considering are licensed by the state and legally allowed to perform your kitchen and bathroom renovations. In the state of California, anyone who contracts for a project worth more than $500 in labor and materials must be a licensed contractor.

It’s usually best to choose a Diamond Certified company because of their Highest in Quality rating; however, that may not always be possible. If you’re unable to choose a Diamond Certified company in your area, you can improve your chances of finding a licensed contractor that’s legally allowed to work in the San Francisco area by checking out your options on the Contractors State License Board website.

You’ll also want to watch out for common mistakes consumers can make when signing a contract and paying for services. For your own protection, never sign a blank or incomplete contract or one you don’t understand. And be wary of contractors who offer today-only discounts, accept only cash or try to push you into making a decision before you’re ready. It’s smart to pay by check, written out to the company that is providing your kitchen and bath contracting services (never made out to “cash” or to an individual). This check will serve as proof of payment in case any dispute arises.

You should also be aware that contractors in San Francisco and the rest of California can only ask for a down payment of 10 percent of the contract price or $1000, whichever is less.

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a kitchen and bath contractor that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified bath and kitchen contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated kitchen and bathroom contractor and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

Radu Binzari is a 21-year veteran of the construction industry and owner of Strong Builders Construction, Inc., a Diamond Certified company since 2009. He can be reached at (415) 504-7877 or by email.

Radu Binzari

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Radu Binzari: Building Strong

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO — Originally from the Republic of Moldova, Radu Binzari came to the United States at the age of 32 and brought with him a construction expertise that was foregrounded by a multi-generational background. “My father and grandfather both worked construction, so I was raised in the field,” he says. “Later in life, when I came to Northern California on vacation, I was attracted by the local industry. Since my father had done a lot of wood work, I appreciated the American emphasis on building with wood as opposed to rock and concrete, which is the common method in Europe. Overall, I saw a lot of opportunity for both life and work, so I decided to stay.”

Today, as owner of Strong Builders Construction, Inc., Radu says his favorite part of his job is interacting with customers. “I find that Bay Area homeowners tend to be very open to new ideas and thinking outside the box, which makes my job more fun. I enjoy working with my clients to create designs, select products and solve problems.”

In regard to a professional philosophy, Radu espouses the importance of staying true to your word. “From big things like price to small things like punctuality, it’s important to deliver what you promise to your clients,” he says. “If you tell a customer you’re going to be there at a certain time, you have to show up on time. If you tell a customer a certain price, that price should be the same at the end of the job. That’s why our clients appreciate us—we do what we say we’re going to do.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Radu says he wouldn’t. “I’d work,” he laughs. “I’m the kind of person who likes to stay busy. Even when I’m off, I’m usually working on my own house, fixing things and doing little remodeling projects.”

Proper Intervals for Deck and Tile Sealing

by Radu Binzari, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO — Most people understand the importance of home maintenance, but not everyone knows the proper intervals at which to perform various tasks. Two common instances of this are the sealing of wood decks and tile surfaces. Deck sealing To… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Tile Sealing Frequency

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SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO — Host, Sarah Rutan: Tile surfaces look their best when regularly sealed, but the technique and frequency of sealing can vary depending on the type…
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Jeffrey Goffo

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Jeffrey Goffo: Big City Builder

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN FRANCISCO — While Jeffrey Goffo grew up working alongside his father, it wasn’t until his college years that he realized he wanted to follow in his professional footsteps. “My father was a carpenter for 60 years in the Chicago area where I grew up,” he tells. “I began working with him when I was a young boy and continued into my teens and through college. When I was in my early 20s, I traveled to Florida to help him build a new house, and it was during the course of that project that I decided I wanted to pursue a career in construction.”

Today, as owner of Goffo Construction Inc., Jeffrey says one of his favorite aspects of his job is working amidst the architectural diversity of San Francisco. “I enjoy all the different types of architecture we have here in San Francisco, from Victorians and Edwardians to Marina-style homes and earthquake cottages. Each style has its own set of challenges, so it keeps things interesting.”

Originally from Indiana, Jeffrey came to the Bay Area in 1976 and continues to reside in the San Francisco area today. “San Francisco has a lot to offer, from its visual beauty to its rich cultural diversity,” he says. “Also, the weather is perfect for working in the construction trade. I couldn’t think of a better place to be.”

Outside of work, Jeffrey engages in a variety of activities, from golf to winemaking. “I’ve played golf my whole life—I started out caddying for my dad and later became a Chick Evans Caddie Scholar,” he says. “Today, I run an annual golf tournament and donate all the proceeds to charity.” Jeffrey also enjoys getting away from it all by spending time at his summer house with his wife, Lisa, and their sons, Nick and Alex.

In his life and career, Jeffrey cites the influence of a particular piece of paternal wisdom. “One of the things my father told me was to treat the home you’re working on as if it were your own,” he remembers. “This advice really served me well over the years and continues to be at the core of my business philosophy today.”

When asked what his future retirement might look like, Jeffrey says it’ll likely be a mixture of avocational pursuits and charitable ventures. “I plan on perfecting my winemaking craft and improving my Bocce game, both of which go hand-in-hand with my Italian-American heritage. I’d also like to volunteer more time to charitable organizations I’m passionate about, such as Habitat for Humanity and the First Tee Junior Golf Program at Harding Park Golf Course.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Coffee or tea?
A: Coffee.

Q: What’s your favorite kind of tree?
A: The olive tree. In addition to winemaking, I like to make my own olive oil.

Q: What’s your favorite season?
A: Fall—that’s when San Francisco has the best weather.

The First Step to Starting a Remodeling Project in San Francisco

by Jeffrey Goffo, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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SAN FRANCISCO — If you own a San Francisco property and are considering a remodeling project, there’s one preliminary step you’ll want to take before getting a contractor involved: contact the city building department to find out if there are… Read more

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Video: Preparing for a Remodel in San Francisco

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SAN FRANCISCO — Host, Sarah Rutan: Prior to starting a remodeling project in San Francisco, it's important to consider the legal aspects and local building…
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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THESE TOP RATED COMPANIES

Barnum Building & Design built this entertainment room following a complete basement remodel in a client’s San Francisco home.

Know What You Want

Narrow Down Your Goals for Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

Before hiring a kitchen and bath contractor in San Francisco, ask yourself the following questions to help narrow down your goals for the project.

Do I want a Diamond Certified company that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Guarantee?

What is my objective in getting my kitchen and bathroom remodeled?

What is my total budget?

Do I want to keep the existing floor plan? If not, how drastically do I want to modify the space?

Is there a design or look I want in my new kitchen and bathroom?

What specific materials, appliances or additions do I want?

Will I live in this home long-term? Or is it a rental property or a house I plan to sell?

What qualities and characteristics do I want in a San Francisco kitchen and bath contractor? (These qualities and characteristics may include good communication skills, starting the job on time, sticking to the construction schedule, and reliable follow-up service.)

What To Ask References

Find and Hire Good Kitchen and Bathroom Contractors in San Francisco

Your decision on a contractor determines the entire course of your job and how satisfied you are with your new bathroom and kitchen designs.

So before deciding on the best kitchen and bath company for you, it’s important to review your interview notes and consider the following questions.

Your decision on a contractor determines the entire course of your job and how satisfied you are with your new bathroom and kitchen designs.

So before deciding on the best kitchen and bath company for you, it’s important to review your interview notes and consider the following questions.

Can the kitchen and bath contractors meet your needs in terms of scheduling, products and installation preferences?

Are the bath and kitchen contractors knowledgeable on the products they install and the construction methods they use? Can they tell you which products and construction techniques best suit your needs and why (i.e. new kitchen designs, new bathroom designs, new kitchen and bath cabinets, new lighting and fixtures, modern kitchen remodeling, custom bathroom remodeling, etc.)?

Is the company sensitive to your budget? Can they offer various products and services that fit your resources? Most contractors will give you bids for good, better and best options that include choices of design and aesthetics, prices, products and services.

Do the kitchen and bath contractors in San Francisco offer warranties in the event of a product failure or installation error? Will they put these guarantees in writing?

Review Your Options

Find and Hire Good Kitchen and Bathroom Contractors in San Francisco

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Your decision on a contractor determines the entire course of your job and how satisfied you are with your new bathroom and kitchen designs.

So before deciding on the best kitchen and bath company for you, it’s important to review your interview notes and consider the following questions.

Can the kitchen and bath contractors meet your needs in terms of scheduling, products and installation preferences?

Are the bath and kitchen contractors knowledgeable on the products they install and the construction methods they use? Can they tell you which products and construction techniques best suit your needs and why (i.e. new kitchen designs, new bathroom designs, new kitchen and bath cabinets, new lighting and fixtures, modern kitchen remodeling, custom bathroom remodeling, etc.)?

Is the company sensitive to your budget? Can they offer various products and services that fit your resources? Most contractors will give you bids for good, better and best options that include choices of design and aesthetics, prices, products and services.

Do the kitchen and bath contractors in San Francisco offer warranties in the event of a product failure or installation error? Will they put these guarantees in writing?

How To Work With

Get Best Local Kitchen and Bath Contractors Interested in Your Remodel

Good kitchen and bath contractors in San Francisco can be selective about which clients and jobs they accept.You can increase your chance of finding a contractor for your project by being the kind of customer that good K & B contractors in San Francisco enjoy working with.

There are some easy ways you can give confidence to local kitchen and bath companies that you want to hire. First, be conscientious when you’re considering your options. If you call contractors for bids, call a limited number that have the service records and quality construction methods you are looking for. Assure the contractors you talk with that you are accepting a few honest bids, not shopping around for the cheapest prices.

You may want to limit your search to the local area, as many of the better kitchen and bathroom contractors prefer to work within a limited area. This allows them to provide good service in a timely fashion, and lessens your chances of signing a contract with a fly-by-night company that is out to make a quick profit.

Most of all, show the Excelsior kitchen and bath contractors that you’re looking for a good value, not the lowest prices you can find on remodeling services. Many homeowners seem to be only concerned with price, so contractors will take notice if you show that you’re invested in finding a skilled kitchen and bath contractor who uses quality products and good building techniques.

Sign a Contract with Your Kitchen & Bath Contracting Company in San Francisco
When you’ve found the right San Francisco bathroom and kitchen contractor for you, you’ll want to sign a contract that provides written proof of the job details and price. Read the whole contract and be sure you understand all of the terms before you sign. Never sign a blank estimate or one that doesn’t include all of the work details.

It’s also wise to confirm any warrantees or guarantees at this time. Ask the contractor to put in writing any warranties they offer, including any exclusions, and any manufacturer warranties.

A contract should protect you, your property and your contractor, so feel free to write in requests and verbal agreements you’ve reached with your kitchen and bath renovation company. This may include start and end dates, the projected completion dates for major project milestones, no-later-than clauses that guarantee a specific finish date, early completion bonuses offered for work finished ahead of schedule, and other issues that may not be covered by a standard contract.

Be a Good Customer

Ways You Can Make the Job Go More Smoothly for Your San Francisco K&B Contractor

You should be able to rely on your kitchen and bathroom contractor for professional work and attention to details. However, there are some things you can do to make your contractor’s job easier and possibly even make the job run smoother and faster.

Talk with your company representative about ways you can prepare for the work and be of assistance while your bathroom and kitchen renovations are in progress, including the following:

Prepare your home for construction. Kitchen remodeling and bathroom renovations often mean dust and debris throughout the rest of your home. Most contractors will erect barriers to keep construction dust in the rooms they’re working on, but you may be able to save time and money by offering to prepare your home yourself. Talk to your kitchen and bath contractor about steps you can take to get ready for construction.

Have storage space available. If your kitchen and bathroom contractor is ordering large amounts of building materials, they may need to store them on-site until they can be used. Ask your contractor if he or she requires you to provide a storage space for cabinets, flooring, countertops, unfinished wood or other construction materials, and have a space ready and available if needed.

Remove and safely store personal items. Move and store all unnecessary items from the kitchen and bathrooms where the San Francisco contractors will be working. This may include furniture, decorations, rugs and plants. Not only will this protect your items from damage, it will allow the contracting company employees to work without fear of damaging your property. You may also want to remove antiques, family heirlooms, art and expensive items from high-traffic areas and safely store them so they aren’t accidentally broken during the construction.

Keep pets and children out of work areas. For safety’s sake, block off construction areas so children and pets cannot get into the rooms that are being renovated. Whether or not the crews are working, there may be unexpected hazards such as power tools, open electrical wiring or uneven flooring that may pose a threat.

How Can You Be a Good Kitchen and Bath Company Customer?
Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a kitchen and bath construction company in San Francisco.

Be clear and upfront with the contractors. Let them know what you want from your new bath and kitchen designs, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and what they can do to satisfy your expectations.

Remember, a smile goes a long way!

Before you hire a kitchen and bath contractor in San Francisco, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate your understanding of the agreement. Most problems occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and those of your contractor, you can avoid most conflicts.

Ask if you should call to check on the progress or if a company representative will call you with updates.

Be sure your contractor has a phone number where they can reach you while they’re working in your home. The construction will move along more smoothly if your contractor can telephone you with any updates, questions or work authorizations.

Why would you want to be a good customer? Companies value straightforward and honest customers. Your behavior helps set the tone and creates a friendly work environment. This way, things may go more smoothly and any problems may be more easily resolved.

Check The Work

Request a Comprehensive Invoice from Local Kitchen and Bath Contractors in San Francisco

Your contractor should present you with a final invoice for the work, including:

Their company name, business address and license number.

A comprehensive list of all work performed and materials used.

The total cost of your kitchen and bath work, including an itemized amount charged for labor.

Request a walk-through with your kitchen and bath company representative when the work is completed and before you make your final payment. Bring the invoice and verify that all work was performed and meets your expectations.

Written Warranties

Ask for Written Proof of Warranties for Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations

Along with your final invoice, your kitchen and bath contractor should also give you a written document explaining all guarantees and warrantees offered by their company and the manufacturers of the products they’ve installed. Not every contractor offers warrantees on their work or on the materials they use, but the ones that do should be able to give you written proof, including:

The contractor’s business name, address and state license number.

A detailed explanation of the warranty coverage, what it covers and any exclusions to the coverage.

Your responsibility in regards to redeeming your warranty, including if you have to pay for labor, materials or pay a prorated amount.

Any terms and limitations to the warranties.

If the warranties are transferrable to the new owner if you sell your home and details of any steps you have to take in order to transfer the guarantees.

Top 10 Requests

Service Requests Made of Local Bathroom and Kitchen Contractors in the San Francisco Area

Local kitchen and bathroom contractors in San Francisco provide the following popular kitchen and bath remodeling services.

San Francisco Kitchen Designs
Usually drawn by a professional kitchen designer, kitchen designs are the one of the first steps in a remodel or renovation. Kitchen designs can be illustrated with simple line drawings, blueprints, technical drawings, samples of flooring and cabinet choices, photographs of appliances and fixtures and paint selection samples.

Kitchen Remodeling in San Francisco
Kitchen remodeling services in San Francisco can range from simple kitchen makeovers and redecorating to major renovations and expansions. Kitchen remodeling contractors provide a full range of services, including cabinet refacing, new flooring and cabinets, new fixtures, and even major remodeling projects like moving walls and adding windows.

Kitchen Makeovers
Less invasive and time-consuming than remodeling or expansion, kitchen and bathroom makeovers change the look of your home without as much mess or expense. Kitchen makeover styles include: contemporary, country, old world, traditional and rustic. Bathroom makeover styles include contemporary, old world, traditional and spa atmosphere.

Bathroom Remodeling
New bathroom designs, bathroom makeovers and redecorating, bath expansions, and adding new flooring, vanities and fixtures, are all considered bathroom remodeling in San Francisco. Remodels can change the appearance and style of your bathroom and can impact the value of your home.

San Francisco Kitchen Expansion Services
Kitchen remodels that include expanding the size of the room are known as kitchen expansions. Kitchens can be expanded by removing or moving walls, expanding the kitchen into an adjacent room, building an addition to an existing kitchen and removing ceiling-hung cabinets and counter tops that cut off the kitchen from the rest of the house.

Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations
Kitchen and bathroom renovations change the appearance of existing rooms, making them more beautiful and functional. Renovations include physical updates, such as more workspace and extended counter tops, and changes to style and decorations, including new appliances and updated flooring and wall coverings.

Bathroom and Kitchen Additions
Simple remodeling often only addresses the existing space. Kitchen and bathroom additions expand the existing space by building on to the home.

Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinet Installation
New bathroom and kitchen cabinets can change the look and functionality of the entire room. Cabinets come in RTA (ready to assemble), semi-custom, and custom or built-to-order. Prices vary greatly depending on materials used and the quality of the cabinets. While they can be the largest single expense in a remodel, quality cabinets often are worth the investment.

Bathroom & Kitchen Flooring Installation
Flooring choices for kitchens and bathrooms include wood, laminate, vinyl, tile, natural stone, bamboo, cork and linoleum. Ask good kitchen and bath contractors in San Francisco for a complete list of the flooring choices and installation methods they offer.

San Francisco Bathroom Designs
The first step in most bathroom remodels is a redesign of the space. This may include moving or removing walls, adding on to the existing room or reconfiguring the existing space to make it more usable. Bathroom designs can be drawn by professional draftspeople or may be offered by bathroom contractors.

Glossary Of Terms

Glossary of Terms for Kitchen and Bath Contractors

The following terms and descriptions will help you understand common kitchen and bath remodeling projects and allow you to better communicate with your K & B contractor.

backsplash
A backsplash is the exposed are between upper cabinets and the countertops. This area is usually painted, tiled or covered by an extended piece of countertop. Decorative backsplash options are available.

Also known as: sink backsplash

bathroom and kitchen additions
Kitchen and bathroom additions expand existing space by adding on square footage to the home. This type of remodel is more invasive and may take longer than a typical remodel, but it allows homeowners to make drastic changes to their space. Bathroom additions may include adding a new bathroom to the home where there wasn’t one before.

Also known as: adding on, master bathroom addition, new kitchen addition, new bathroom addition, add a second bathroom

bathroom designs
Most bathroom remodels include a redesign of the space. This may include moving or removing walls, adding on or reconfiguring existing space. Bathroom designs can make rooms larger, or appear larger, and can drastically change the appearance and functionality of a room. Bathroom design styles may include contemporary, old world, traditional and spa.

bathroom remodeling
Types of bathroom remodeling include new bathroom designs, bathroom makeovers, bath redecorating and bathroom expansions. Remodels can change the appearance and style of a bathroom and increase home values.

bathtub refinishing
The act of repairing and resealing an old bathtub is called bath tub refinishing. This allows a homeowner to keep their original bathtub but improves the appearance of the fixture. Bathtub refinishing includes changing the color of a bathtub, removing surface damage like chips and cracks, removing deep-set stains, reglazing and tile replacement and repair. Refinished bathtubs can be easier to clean and look like new.

cabinet refacing
Refacing cabinets is the process of putting new facades on existing cabinets or repainting and refinishing existing cabinet fronts. Cabinet refacing is less costly than installing new cabinets and can have the same visual results.

island
A free-standing combination of cabinets and a countertop. Islands are most commonly used in the kitchen and provide extra work space. Some islands are permanently affixed to the floor; others are built on wheels or casters and are movable.

Also known as: kitchen island, movable island, free-standing island

kitchen and bathroom cabinets
New bathroom and kitchen cabinetry changes the look and functionality of a room. Cabinets come in RTA (ready to assemble), semi-custom, and custom. Cabinet prices vary depending on materials and quality.

kitchen and bathroom renovations
Renovations change the appearance of existing rooms, making them more appealing and functional. Room renovations include room layout changes, such as adding workspace and extending counter tops, and changes to style and decor, including new appliances and updated flooring and paint.

kitchen designs
Kitchen designs are the one of the first steps in a remodel or renovation and are usually drawn by a professional kitchen designer in Sonoma County. Kitchen designs can be illustrated with simple line drawings, or may be more in depth and include blueprints, technical drawings, samples of product and material choices, paint samples and appliance and fixture choices.

kitchen expansion
Kitchens can be expanded by removing or moving walls, spreading out the kitchen into an adjoining room, and building a home addition onto an existing kitchen.

Also known as: adding-on, kitchen additions

kitchen makeovers
Kitchen and bathroom makeovers are less invasive than remodeling and expansions, and they change the look of a home without as much mess or expense. Popular kitchen makeover styles include: traditional, contemporary, country, rustic and old world.

kitchen remodeling
Kitchen remodeling encompasses simple kitchen makeovers and redecorating to major renovations and kitchen expansions. Kitchen contractors provide a full range of remodeling services, including installation of new flooring and cabinets, major remodeling projects like moving walls and adding windows and upgrades to kitchen fixtures and appliances.

replacement kitchen
A new kitchen or kitchen remodel that is installed exactly as the old kitchen appeared. In a replacement kitchen, the cabinets, appliances and fixtures are located in the same places as the previous products.

Also known as: kitchen replacement, new kitchen installation

vanities
A bathroom vanity is the fixture that includes the bathroom sink and the storage furniture or cabinet around the sink.

work triangle
The optimal kitchen set-up is often known as the kitchen work triangle. In order to make a kitchen space more functional, the refrigerator, main sink and cooking area should form a triangle when the points are connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Presented to Local Kitchen and Bathroom Contractors

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified kitchen and bath contractor?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a kitchen and bathroom remodeling company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only bath and kitchen contractors rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified company.

Q: Can I remodel my Alameda kitchen and bathroom myself?
A: Depending on your ability and contracting knowledge, you may be able to take on some of the work yourself. However, like with most major home improvement and construction projects, kitchen and bathroom contracting is usually best left to the professionals.

If you’re looking to cut costs, there may be some aspects of the job you can do, such as tearing out the old cabinets and flooring. Your contractor may also allow you to handle the trash removal, some preparation work or certain aspects of the job, like painting or wallpapering. Talk with your contractor about how you can help with the process without getting in the way or causing more damage.

Q: What most determines the cost of my new kitchen and bathroom?
A: The size of your kitchen, the materials you choose and the complexity of the job are three factors that will greatly influence the cost of your job.
Cabinets often account for up to half of the total cost of a new kitchen and bathroom, and are usually the largest single expense in a remodel or upgrade. Cabinets come in a range of prices that reflect their quality, craftsmanship and material. Keep in mind, if you try to save money by buying cheaper materials, you may end up having to replace surfaces years sooner than if you had purchased custom, high-quality products that fit your space and are made with quality materials.

Labor and design costs also are a costly part of any kitchen and bath upgrades. But skilled and experienced tradespeople can often offer you a better value than cheaper contractors. When you’re considering the contractors to hire for your project, make sure you’re getting the most for your money in terms of labor and products.

Q: My kitchen and bathroom really need to be updated, but I don’t have a large budget. What should I do?
A: As with any major purchase, only spend what you can afford. You’ll want to draw up a budget before making any commitments with local contractors to see what you can realistically expect. It may be best to wait for your remodel until you can pay for it upfront. Some contractors will work out payment plans with you, and you may look into taking out a home equity loan or hiring a contractor who offer financing and loan options. You may also be able to hire a contractor who can complete the work in phases, so you can break the job into smaller, more affordable jobs.

Q: How do I choose my cabinets, countertops and appliances?
A: Some kitchen and bath companies have designers on-staff, and most contractors will assist you in selecting the products that best fit your home. The contractor you hire may also have relationships with local showrooms or designers. While your budget will dictate the quality and materials you ultimately choose, it’s important to consider the ways you’ll use your space to ensure you’re getting appliances, cabinets and countertops that look great and are the most functional for you.

Q: How long will my bathroom and kitchen renovations take?
A: Projects may last a few days to several months. The size of your space and the complexity of the remodel will dictate how long the work takes. Your selection of products and materials may also impact the length of time. For example, custom cabinets will take longer to build and install than will prefabricated cabinets. Your contractor should be able to give you an estimated start and end date, and provide you with the estimated completion time for major milestones along the way.

Q: What can I expect during the kitchen and bathroom remodeling process?
A: Every k & b contractorworks differently, but the process for most bathroom and kitchen renovations is similar. First, the contractor will tear out any non-necessary cabinets, flooring, surfaces and walls. New electrical and plumbing work is installed, and then walls are repaired or built. Contractors will usually install the cabinets next, before adding countertops and final plumbing fixtures. Flooring, appliances and finish work are usually the last items in a renovation.

Ask your contractor for a specific timeline of the process, and talk with them about other items you’ll need to know while the work is in progress. For instance, if you will be living in the home during the remodel, discuss options for installing a temporary kitchen and the dust control measures you can expect.

Q: Will I have to move out of my home during the construction?
A: This depends on the size and scope of your project, your comfort and the preferences of your contractor. If you require a major bathroom and kitchen remodel, it may be easiest for you and your family to relocate during some or all of the construction. This is especially true if you have only one bathroom or if the plumbing needs to be turned off for long periods of time. Some contractors can set up a temporary kitchen area or will guarantee they can provide you with running water at the end of each day. Talk with your contractor about your specific needs and their recommendations.

Q: Will a kitchen remodel increase my home’s value?
A: Yes. The national average return on a remodeled kitchen is between 80 and 135 percent. That means that most consumers who install a new kitchen increase the value of their home and get back most, if not all, of the money they put into the project.

Q: Will a bathroom renovation increase my home’s value?
A: Yes. Just like with kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling projects can see a 90 to 130 percent return. These increases in home value may depend on the location of your home, so talk to your contractor and a real estate expert for specific return on investment information regarding your home.